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    KTM Duke 790 Gets Extended Warranty Of 2 Yrs / 30k Kms For Rs 4k

    Image – Vikram James
    The extended warranty package for the 790 Duke needs to be purchased within 730 days of purchasing the motorcycle

    KTM Duke 790 middleweight naked sportsbike has been in India for quite sometime. It serves as a natural upgrade option for existing 390 Duke customers, and has been doing reasonably well in the country’s premium bike segment. In a bid to further enhance its appeal and ownership experience, KTM India has introduced an optional extended warranty package at a nominal price.
    KTM 790 Duke extended warranty
    We thank Vikram James, owner of a 790 Duke, who shared this update with us. He reports that KTM India acted upon the feedback of existing KTM Duke 790 customers and came up with the extended warranty package which offers an additional 2 years or 30k km over the existing standard 2 year or 30k km protection.
    The extended warranty package of the KTM 790 Duke is priced at around INR 4,000. The customers should opt for the package within 730 days of purchasing the motorcycle. They are eligible for a discount on the extended warranty if they opt for it within 180 days of purchasing the vehicle.
    Of course standard warranty rules apply as to what is covered and what is not. The total warranty on offer for KTM Duke 790 customers has now been increased to 4 yrs / 60k kms – thanks to the addition of this new extended warranty package.
    KTM Duke 790 Extended Warranty – Brochure Part 1
    KTM 790 Duke at a glance
    After years of anticipation, KTM finally decided to treat its Indian loyalists with its middleweight sportsbike late last year. Nicknamed ‘the scalpel‘, the KTM 790 Duke incorporates the aggressive character that the brand’s street fighters are known for, but in combination with precise handling. Net result is a motorcycle which, in right hands, is capable of some very impressive stuff.
    At the time of its launch in 2019, the 790 Duke was available in BS4 avatar. After depleting the last few units of the inventory at a hefty discount of around INR 1 lakh (the ex-showroom price was INR 8.64 lakh), it was expected that the Austrian brand will eventually introduce a BS6 version. However, there is no official news about the 790 Duke being back on sale in India as of now.
    KTM Duke 790 Extended Warranty – Brochure Part 2
    The BS4-compliant 799 cc in-line twin-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine dishes out 105 hp and 87 Nm of torque. A 6-speed transmission is mated to the motor by means of a slipper clutch. The motorcycle offers four riding modes and switchable cornering ABS and traction control.
    KTM 890 Duke R
    Meanwhile, KTM has introduced an even sportier variant of ‘the scalpel’ called the 890 Duke R or ‘the super scalpel’. The motorcycle gets a 890 cc engine which is good for 121 hp and 99 Nm of torque. In addition to extra power, the 890 Duke R also offers extra features such as adjustable WP Apex front suspension, Brembo Stylema brake system, Michelin Powercup II hypersport tyres and so on. Hopefully, KTM India will soon launch the 890 Duke R in India in place of the over due 790 Duke BS6. More

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    Okinawa Cruiser Electric Scooter And Motorcycle Launch in 2021

    Okinawa Cruiser Electric Scooter
    Upon its launch, Okinawa Cruiser will rival the likes of Bajaj Chetak, BGauss B8 and Ather 450X

    Gurugram-based electric scooter manufacturer, Okinawa has announced that it will be launching its flagship maxi-scooter- Cruiser in India next year. Okinawa Cruiser made its maiden appearance earlier this year at the Auto Expo in February. The company, however, has not revealed any exact timeline of its launch.
    The e-scooter was earlier slated to be launched this year but like many other automobile launches, was postponed due to the outbreak of novel coronavirus. If it weren’t for the pandemic, the e-scooter would have been at markets by now.
    Design & Features
    Cruiser’s primary highlights are its design which, as mentioned before, follows the language of a maxi scooter. For instance, it sports a bold front apron housing a large LED headlamp and turn indicators. It gets a slightly pulled-back handlebar and cruiser-like forward-set footpegs which would make for a comfortable ride position. The interesting bit is the front floor-bed and footrests belong to two different levels.
    Long and sweeping rear panels incorporate a large stepped seat. Being a premium offering, it is also laced with a bunch of tech gizmos such as an anti-theft alarm, find my scooter function, keyless ignition system, USB port, mobile charging, motor walking assistance and a whole lot more.
    Okinawa Electric Maxi-Scooter
    Powertrain & Dynamics
    Coming to its powertrain, Cruiser is powered by a 3kW electric motor which is propelled by a 4kWh lithium-ion battery. It claims a single-charge range of 120 km and a top speed of 100 kmph. Okinawa had earlier claimed that the battery pack can be juiced up fully within 2-3 hours. The company will also provide a high-speed DC charging function as a part of the package.
    The electric Maxi scooter rides on 14-inch dual-tone alloy wheels with disc brakes on both ends. Its suspension setup gets conventional telescopic forks at front and dual shock absorbers at rear. As per some reports, the e-scooter is expected to arrive at the Indian market around third quarter of next fiscal year. One can expect it to be priced more than Rs 1.0 lakh (ex-showroom).
    Okinawa Oki100
    Other launches- Oki100
    Apart from Cruiser, Okinawa is also looking to introduce its first electric motorcycle offering Oki100 next year. A pre-production concept was showcased at the AutoExpo earlier this year. The bike will come with fair share of technology including app-based telematics, connected vehicle technology and more. It will lock horns with Revolt 400, the only other electric motorcycle in sale in India.
    Other than developing new products, Okinawa is also looking to expand its footprint in India by increasing its dealership count to 500 by the end of this fiscal year. Currently, the brand has 350 dealer outlets across the country. the company also recently announced the discontinuation of scooters running on lead-acetate batteries.
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    EEVE Electric Scooters Atreo, Ahava Launched In India – Up To 100 Kms Range

    EEVE electric scooters – Ahava and Atreo
    Eeve Atreo and Ahava electric scooters launched with 5 year vehicle warranty as standard

    EeVe India has launched two new electric scooters, Atreo (meaning king), and Ahava (meaning loved). Atreo has ride range of 90 to 100 kms. Smart features include geo tagging and fencing to keep an eye on vehicle location, and safeguard the vehicle. Immobilization lets one lock the scooter right away in case of any untoward event. As EV adoption becomes mainstream, manufacturers are ensuring customers are provided longterm guarantees.
    The scooter comes with 5-year warranty, and battery warranty is set at a year. The same is true for insurance for a 1 year period. In ensuring that longterm costs are affordable, as per the company, running cost stands at 15 paisa for a km making the scooter not only an eco-friendly one but also operationally sustainable.
    Available at a price of Rs 64,900 (for Atreo), the electric scooter is available in pocket friendly EMI options owing the financing from leading institutes. Atreo is available in 2 colour options. Dual tone in red and black, and a simply monotone grey.
    Eeve Ahava electric scooter
    Eeve Ahava features a 250 watt motor for a ride range of 60-70 kms and doesn’t skimp on features, sharing much of what’s available on the longer riding range Atreo. it’s available in 2 dual tone colour options, blue and black, and red and black. Ahava is priced at Rs 55,900. All prices are ex-sh.
    EEVE Ahava electric scooter
    It goes without saying that as vehicles become smart, Eeve Atreo and Ahava variants are offered with technology-enabled features as standard. The smart interface comes together with the use of a dedicated app to stay updated about the scooter’s working in real time, and otherwise.
    Eeve scooter warranty
    Both vehicles feature day-time running lights, and efficiency in operational costs. The manufacturer is also expanding its dealer network footprint to reach a larger customer base across 52 cities. Design cues focus on a sporty look, and design.
    EEVE Atreo electric scooter
    Product USP lies in super long riding ranges, patented batteries with longest life cycles including a 1-year warranty, and 5-year warranty. The company aims to make its electric scooters a choicest selection for the masses rather than a smaller niche group.
    Co-Founder, and Director of EeVe India, Mr Harsh Vardhan Didwania says, “We are really excited about adding two new variants of electric scooters besides the existing Xeniaa, Wind, 4U & Your models. We look forward to establishing ourselves as one of the pioneer manufacturers of electric scooters in the near future. Our vehicles are designed keeping in mind the needs and requirements of the Indian two-wheeler users. So, EeVe is perfect for your utility, style, and comfort.” More

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    Hyderabad Police To Auction Abandoned Vehicles – Activa, Pulsar, Splendor, Apache

    Image for reference.
    Prior to auction, the Police Commissioner has issued an order seeking objection or ownership of these abandoned vehicles

    There are as many as 2,391 abandoned and unclaimed vehicles lying with the Hyderabad Police. They are of varying types and makes and now the police seek to dispose around 175 of these vehicles via public auction.
    The Police Commissioner of Basheerbagh, Anjani Kumar has issued a order asking persons if they have any objection or can claim ownership interest in any of these vehicles. These persons can file an application before the police and claim the vehicle within a period of 6 months from date of issue of notice.
    Getting rid of abandoned or unclaimed vehicles by way of public auction is permitted under Section 7 of Hyderabad Metropolitan Area Police Act 2004 r/w Sec 40 of Hyderabad City Police Act. Failing such claims, the vehicles will be auctioned.
    Unclaimed or Abandoned Vehicles
    The particulars of these vehicles are available with I Narasimha Murty – Reserve Sub-Inspector of Police City Training Center. He can be contacted on phone number 9490616637 and via the Hyderabad Police www.hyderabadpolice.gov.in
    File photo
    The list of vehicles to be auctioned includes two wheelers among which are a large number of Honda Activa, Hero Splendor, Passion Pro, Bajaj Discover, TVS Wego, Apache and Honda Unicorn. The list also includes some auto rickshaws.
    The list gives the number of the vehicle, its engine and chassis number and the police station where the owners of these vehicles can approach in case they want to claim the vehicle within the stipulated period prior to auction.
    List of vehicles to auction
    There are open areas near many Regional Transport Offices where these vehicles have been piling up. They not only occupy space but are rusting due to neglect as the owners prefer not to stake claim even after cases against them have been settled.
    List of vehicles to auction
    These vehicles which consist of two wheelers and auto rickshaws, cannot be piled up indefinitely. The Police have been empowered to dispose off these vehicles, which have been impounded either due to some accident or some other crime, from time to time via public auction after giving the owners sufficient notice to claim them.

    Help by Pune Based NGO
    The burden of unclaimed or abandoned vehicles is seen across the country. Similarly in Mumbai too, the Police have noted piling stocks of abandoned and unclaimed vehicles. The Mumbai Police lead by Joint Commissioner of Police Vishwas Nangre Patil has joined hands with a Pune based NGO Gangamata Wahan Shodh Sanstha to help in clearing these vehicle by tracing its owners.
    The NGO has been successful in a similar effort conducted in Nasik and disposed off 2,000 vehicles they found and approached the owners of these abandoned vehicles, asked them to claim their vehicles but found that the owners were reluctant for various reasons. The NGO works with the Police to acquire an NOC from the owner to sell the vehicle off as scrap or via public auction while the proceeds therefrom will go to the Government. More

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    Ola Electric Scooter Plant In Tamil Nadu Will Be Largest In The World – Create 10k Jobs

    Ola acquired Etergo Electric Scooter
    Ola announces its first manufacturing plant in Tamil Nadu, India, and will invest Rs 2.4k cr

    Ola is setting up its first manufacturing facility in India. The MoU has been signed with Tamil Nadu government and entails an investment of Rs 2,400 crore. Upto completion, the project will have created about 10,000 jobs, and is stated to be the world’s largest scooter manufacturing facility. Initial annual production capacity is 2 million (20 lakh) units per year.
    The Tamil Nadu plant will begin production with Ola’s Etergo AppScooter, which was acquired earlier. AppScooter features a removable battery that’s easy to port, and charge anywhere. Intelligent teach based smart features bring together a modern user experience for electric scooters. Once underway, Ola will introduce many new-age two wheeler product line-ups.
    This could be a big step in helping the electric two wheeler market establish itself in a bigger way. Currently, the industry sees participation from tech companies, new companies, and tie-ups between new and traditional companies. Growth focus now sees a range of low speed, and high speed electric scooters, and 1 single electric motorcycle manufacturer.
    Ola Electric growth path
    Previously, Ola had announced plans to hire over 2,000 people as its electric mobility business grows. The focus is a global one that brings to the fire electric and smart urban mobility solutions. As plans are formalised, Ola has gone onto announce new personnel hiring to lead global ops. Last year, Ola Electric raised $250 million from Masayoshi Son’s SoftBank to take its valuation to more than $1 billion.
    Etergo electric scooter
    The move highlights reduction of India’s import dependence where electric vehicles are concerned. Considering India has major EV adaption plans, a large-scale project like Ola’s will help setup local supply chains, and manufacturing, along with tech knowhow. And since the plant will cater to markets in Europe, Asia and Latin America, laying down systems that work is essential for success.
    Ola electric a global player
    European electric two-wheeler market has seen growth in 2020. Furthermore, EV adaptation is encouraged through well planned government budgets wherein the government offers to pick up a substantial part of tab for small electric scooters, and cycles.
    Ola is going to supply an electric two-wheeler order to New Zealand as the country is on path to introduce at least 64,000 new electric vehicles 2021 end. The nation has set serious carbon neutral goals 2025.
    Bhavish Aggarwal, chairman and Group CEO, Ola said, “We are excited to announce our plans to set up the world’s largest scooter factory. This is a significant milestone for Ola and a proud moment for our country as we rapidly progress towards realising our vision of moving the world to sustainable mobility solutions across shared and owned mobility. This will be one of the most advanced manufacturing facilities in the world. This factory will showcase India’s skill and talent to produce world class products that will cater to global markets.” More

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    Royal Enfield 650 Interceptor Modified As A Cruiser – Named Hummingbird

    Royal Enfield 650 Modified – Hummingbird
    Royal Enfield plans to launch multiple new motorcycles every year in India

    We already know by now that Royal Enfield is developing a full-blown cruiser based on the 650cc platform which underpins Interceptor 650 and Continental GT 650. Also referred to as KX650, launch is expected next year.
    Images of RE’s cruiser 650 test mule have already been out. However, before Royal Enfield launches their 650cc crusier officially, a custom-made cruiser on the same platform has already been made.
    While Interceptor 650 has been a fan favourite ever since its launch in 2018, there are loads of room for improvement in order to classify itself as a tourer. Its uncomfortable seat and stiff suspension setup make for an unforgiving riding experience for long distances.
    However, if it were modified into cruiser things might be different. An aftermarket customisation firm called Bulleteer Customs has modified an Interceptor into a proper cruiser and posted its images on its Instagram handle.

    Modified Design
    It has taken more than a year for Bulleteer Customs to complete this job, from designing to actual execution. The bike adopts a design of an authentic bobber with wide handlebars and a very low stance. Handlebars here use extenders to provide a comfortable riding position. Wheelbase has been increased by providing a slight rake to the front suspension unit thus feeling more planted on straight roads and highways.
    Tyres have been upgraded from 100mm to 120mm at front and 130mm to 180mm at rear. This also lends a distinct road presence to the motorcycle. Saddle has been lowered and flattened out with proper cushioning therefore making for a more comfortable ride. The customised bike gets a split seat instead of a single piece as on the stock Interceptor.

    Side body panels have been changed as well, which bear the name ‘Highway’. Fuel tank is of a similar tear-drop shape however, like Continental GT, it comes with cuts on either side for a more aerodynamic look. The motorcycle wears a nice contrasting look thanks to a colour scheme of hue green and black with pinstriping used.
    Engine and alloy wheels are painted in Black with a white accent matching the aesthetics of the cruiser. A different exhaust system which is more straight than being up-swept has been used.
    Powertrain Details
    Clearly, time and effort invested in this modification have paid off nicely and the bike looks quite tasteful. Interceptor is powered by a 648cc parallel-twin oil/air-cooled motor which gives out 47 bhp and 52 Nm of peak torque. It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox and offered with a slip and assist clutch. As of now there has been no official word from Royal Enfield regarding KX650’s launch but we expect to hear more about it in coming months.

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    New Honda CB 250cc Under Development – Patent Leaks

    Honda CB350 In India – For reference
    The recently launched CB350 in India competes with the likes of Royal Enfield Classic 350, Jawa and Benelli Imperiale

    Honda has been reaping benefits from the introduction of H’Ness CB350 introduced a couple of months ago in the India market. Despite being available in limited numbers through its premium chain of dealerships BigWing, it has found a decent amount of buyers.
    Now, the Japanese auto giant is looking to expand its popular CB range of bikes. Patent images of a new motorcycle possibly of the new CB250 have leaked and surfaced on the internet. Going by the images, it resembles closely to CB300R which is slated to launch in India soon.
    Design Expected
    Although it seems to share most of its working components with its elder sibling CB400 SF including its frame and bodywork. The frame in discussion here is a conventional double cradle type and the swingarm seems fairly simple. Lots of focus has been put into the rear suspension setup which gets a mono-shock unit and has been mounted directly in the swingarm with no rising-rate linkage.
    Thus the cycle part is mounted on the frame directly behind the machine’s fuel tank, something which is common to more modern Honda motorcycles. Rest of the components are similar to the CB400 SF like the seat, wheels and tail section.
    Honda CB 250cc patent leaks
    Development on this seems to be in nascent stages since details available are very limited. However, it looks Honda might be serious about this because if it weren’t so important a more generic image of this could have been drawn.
    CB250 legacy
    The first generation of CB250 came out in the 1970s with its latest incarnation coming out in 1992 and staying in global markets until it got replaced by CBF250 in 2003. Despite its modest power and torque figures, it performed its duties without any complaints and became one of the most popular middleweight classic motorcycles.
    Honda 250cc engine patent
    Chances of production & arriving in India
    As of now, Honda’s CB range extends from the entry-level CB125R to top of the line CB1000RR which recently got updated. Question arises whether this bike will indeed see a production version soon and if it will arrive in India or not. Honda is surely looking to expand its premium range of motorcycles in India and the new CB250 could be an enticing option since the much loved and endeared CBR250R got discontinued earlier this year.
    Currently, Honda premium range of BigWing motorcycles starts from the new H’Ness CB350 and the new CB250 could be placed under it. The challenge for Honda will be to heavily localise this bike just like it did with the CB350 which is claimed to be more than 90 percent localised in India.
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    Aprilia eSR1 Electric Scooter Name Registered – Launch Expected In 2021

    Image for reference
    E-scooter offering from Aprilia is expected to share its technologies and mechanicals with Vespa Elletrica

    Piaggio has filed a trademark for its upcoming electric scooter from its Aprilia brand. The Italian two-wheeler manufacturer has registered the trademark ‘eSR1’ at European Union Intellectual Property Office. The latter published a trademark application showing the ‘eSR1’ name in stylised font and logo.
    However, the applicant’s name hasn’t been revealed yet although it is indicated to be the Piaggio Group. The evidence being the ‘SR’ portion of trademark which resembles the SR logo in Aprilia brand of scooters.
    Furthermore, the eSR logo looks straight out of the books for the logo of SR-GP Replica which was revealed last year. The other major hint given is that the trademark has been registered on Piaggio’s behalf by Jacobacci & Partners S.P.A, the firm which handles all intellectual property matters for the Italian brand. Aprilia currently retails the SR range of scooters in 50cc, 125cc, 150cc and 160cc configurations around the world.
    Aprilia’s e-Scooter plans
    It is also being speculated that Aprilia eSR1 will share its powertrain and technology with other Piaggio group of products, specifically Vespa Elettrica which is already on sale in many international markets. Since it is a common practice by Aprilia to share technologies among its sibling brands this shouldn’t come as a surprise. This means Elettrica’s electric motor and batteries could be repackaged for Aprilia eSR1.
    Vespa Electric Scooter At 2020 Auto Expo
    Trademark filings don’t guarantee a production-spec model launch as they don’t reveal if or when a specific model will arrive at markets. In this case, however, chances are pretty high since electric scooters have been in trend and a global brand like Aprilia will surely garner a lot of attention which is likely to translate into a high consumer base.
    If eSR1 borrows its powertrain and technology from Vespa, much of its development would already be complete even though the e-scooter hasn’t yet been revealed in flesh. This means that launch of the new Aprilia scooter could be as early as next year for European markets.
    Vespa Elettrica details
    Speaking of specifications, Vespa Elettrica draws its power from a 4kW electric motor paired with a lithium-ion battery pack. Peak torque available at wheels stands at an impressive 200 Nm and provides a range of 100 km in Eco mode and 70 km in Power mode in a single charge. It takes 3.5 hours for the battery to get juiced up using a 220V socket.
    Its underpinnings are similar to its petrol-powered counterpart assisted by a trailing link front suspension and single shock absorber at rear. It rolls on 12-inch front and 11-inch rear alloy wheels. The model was showcased at this year’s AutoExpo but there are no signs of its launch in India anytime soon.
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